[Mercedes-Benz GLE 2024 Review]: Elevating the Standards of Excellence

Refined Luxury: Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC

As one of the flagship models in the luxury SUV segment, the GLE from Mercedes-Benz, evolved from the M-Class introduced in 1997, focuses on sophistication, modernity, comfort, and luxury. After nearly three decades of development, the latest GLE V167 has entered its fourth generation, integrating the most advanced technologies while retaining its elegant spirit within a sporty and robust design.

Sporting a dynamic appearance with its large size and robust design, the GLE 450 4MATIC boasts impressive 19-inch rims and the iconic three-pointed star logo grille at the front. The sleek profile of this SUV is subtly accentuated by the color-matched or dark-toned paint on the C and D pillars by Mercedes-Benz engineers.

While the exterior exudes sportiness and dominance, the interior of the GLE 450 4MATIC indulges its users with multiple luxurious touchpoints, from design to materials, complemented by cutting-edge technologies.

Everything is meticulously crafted to perfection, providing a pleasant tactile experience. Within the spacious cabin of this mid-size luxury SUV, the GLE 450 4MATIC incorporates indulgent features such as the Thermotronic multi-zone climate control system, premium electrically adjustable Artico leather seats, and a central display seamlessly connected to the instrument cluster behind the steering wheel.

The driver’s cockpit features a massive 12.3-inch screen on each side, creating a striking impression of the GLE’s flashy technology. Passengers can interact with the MBUX system through various means: touch controls on the screen, the touchpad on the center console, voice commands, or even hand gestures (without touch).

Matching its substantial size, the GLE 450 4MATIC is equipped with an impressive powertrain, delivering superior performance while maintaining a comfortable and stable ride. The inline-six turbocharged engine with a displacement of 3.0L, combined with the 48V mild-hybrid technology, generates 367 horsepower and 500 Nm of torque, propelling the vehicle from a standstill to 100 km/h in just 5.7 seconds—an exceptional feat for an SUV weighing over two tons.

Complementing the powertrain is the E-Active Body Control adaptive air suspension system, which can adjust the ride height, enabling confident water wading and even light off-roading on rocks, sand, or mud, in addition to precise high-speed handling typical of German automobiles.

In addition to the highly reliable chassis, Mercedes-Benz has equipped the GLE with a range of Pre-Safe safety features that protect passengers before a collision occurs, such as automatic window closure, adjustment of seating positions for optimal seatbelt effectiveness, and even emitting protective sounds during impact to safeguard passengers’ ears from harmful frequencies.

Elevating Emotion and Speed: Mercedes-AMG GLE 53

Mercedes-Benz, with its three-digit model names, evokes a world of luxury and opulence, comfort, and prestige associated with successful entrepreneurs. In contrast, Mercedes-AMG, with its concise two-digit model names, represents an entirely different realm.

While the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 4MATIC offers a spacious, luxurious, and comfortable environment for the entire family, the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 focuses on the most critical element: an intense driving experience characterized by potent performance and speed befitting a high-performance automobile. Transforming a spacious luxury SUV for families, the engineers at Mercedes-Benz have crafted a powerful, dynamic, and sharp machine.

Sharing the same engine platform but enhanced with a 48V supercharger added to the original turbocharger, this six-cylinder 3.0L powerhouse now delivers an astonishing 435 horsepower and 520 Nm of torque. Thanks to this superior power, the AMG GLE 53 accelerates faster than the GLE 450 4MATIC by 0.4 seconds, despite being 100 kg heavier and having a more substantial presence.

Specifically, it takes only 5.4 seconds for the vehicle to reach a speed of 100 km/h from a standstill. To harness the full potential of this engine, AMG engineers replaced the 9G Tiptronic transmission of the GLE 450 4MATIC with a 9-speed TCT transmission that includes a wet start-up clutch, reducing lag during acceleration.

Accompanying this powertrain is the AMG Ride Control adaptive suspension system, which allows for precise and immediate intervention in the movement of each wheel and the entire vehicle, providing the driver with the best possible control. In return, the AMG GLE 53 delivers a firmer and more responsive ride compared to the GLE 450 4MATIC, which prioritizes smoothness and comfort for passengers.

True to the spirit of AMG, the Mercedes-AMG GLE 53 captivates with its fastback design, featuring a sloping roofline that gives it a sleek and athletic profile. The front grille with vertical slats showcases its aggressive nature, and the impressive lower air intake, 21-inch five-spoke alloy wheels, and dual exhaust pipes on each side further emphasize its performance credentials.

While the GLE 450 4MATIC’s cabin exudes luxury and comfort with classic leather and light-toned wood trim, the AMG GLE 53 takes a different approach with carbon fiber and suede-like materials in dark tones, accented with hints of red, creating an enigmatic and exhilarating ambiance.

One model prioritizes family-oriented comfort, while the other focuses on delivering an exhilarating driving experience. The GLE 450 4MATIC, priced at VND 4.699 billion, and the GLE 53, priced at VND 5.188 billion, offer distinct choices for those seeking a blend of luxury and performance. Which one would you choose?

Phan Anh (Tuoitrethudo)